Many companies will buy your Baltimore house for cash, but they are not all the same. Some close with their own money, some resell your contract, and some only buy move-in-ready homes. Here is how the main types compare, and what to ask before you sign anything.
The main types of companies that buy houses
| Type of buyer | Buys houses needing work? | Usually closes with own funds? | What to watch for |
|---|---|---|---|
| iBuyers (online instant-offer companies) | Often prefer newer homes in good condition | Yes | Service fees and repair credits can lower your final net |
| National “we buy houses” franchises | Yes | Varies by local office | Each office is independently owned; compare written offers |
| Local investors and flippers | Yes | Varies | Ask for proof of funds and who holds the deposit |
| Wholesalers | Yes | No, they usually assign the contract | The assignment fee comes out of your equity |
| Large institutional buyers | Rarely for one-off older rowhouses | Yes | Usually focused on specific home types |
| Maryland Home Options (licensed brokerage) | Yes | Yes, we close on what we buy | We also show you what listing would net |
This table describes common patterns, not any single company. Every buyer’s terms are different, so compare written offers side by side.
7 questions to ask any company that wants to buy your house
- Will you close on this purchase yourself, or might you assign the contract to someone else?
- Can you show proof of funds?
- How much is the earnest money deposit, and is it held by a title company?
- How long is the inspection or “due diligence” period, and can you walk away during it?
- What fees or repair credits will be deducted from the price?
- Who pays closing costs and transfer taxes?
- What would my home likely sell for if I listed it instead?
In Maryland, a buyer who may assign a residential contract must tell you in writing before you sign. Learn the red flags in a cash offer.
Is HomeVestors legit?
HomeVestors is a real, long-running national franchise known for the “We Buy Ugly Houses” brand. Each office is independently owned and operated, so experience can vary by location. The same rule applies to any buyer: get the offer in writing, ask the seven questions above, and compare it to what listing would net.
Meet your local team
We’re the Maryland Home Options team at Everything Real Estate, a licensed Maryland brokerage (lic. #524502). Every request comes to Ron Howard first. He reviews it personally and connects you with the agent who knows your area, so you hear from a real local person, not a call center.
Compare your offer with ours, free
Already have an offer from another company? Send it to us. We’ll show you, side by side, how it compares with our cash offer and with listing.
Common questions
Which company pays the most for houses in Baltimore?
It depends on your home’s condition, location, and timeline. The only way to know is to compare written offers, and to compare them with what listing would net after costs.
Do companies that buy houses charge fees?
Some deduct service fees or repair credits from their offer. Ask for a written net-proceeds estimate before you sign.
Will a company buy my house in any condition?
Many will, including Maryland Home Options. Online instant-offer companies are often more selective about condition and age.
This page is general information, not legal advice.